Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Peter Cline, Founder of VETMotorsports, located in Columbus, OH, USA.
What's your organization, and who are your members?
Since 2013 VETMotorsports has become the Nation's leading non-profit that honors and empowers the military community through active participation in motorsports. The organization embeds Active, Guard, Reserve, Gold Star families, and any veteran from any era with a service-connected injury into professional race teams or puts them behind the wheel to race in amateur events. By placing these veterans in hands-on, high-stress, team environments that mimic active duty, the organization gives them direction, empowerment, and challenges that help them focus on ability and moving forward rather than disability and the past.
Tell us about yourself
I've been a motorcycle rider for over 30 years. I have had a successful career as a musician and amateur motorcycle racer. After some inspiration from BBC America's "Top Gear" show, I began placing post-9/11 veterans as participants in my racing efforts. Those efforts created the foundation of the non-profit. With the help of family, donors, volunteers, and the Board of Directors, the mission continues to grow and be successful.
From a motivation perspective, my motivation has been connecting people to a larger purpose (whatever that may be). I understand that what VETMotorsports does may not be the thing for every participant, but by providing a new experience, we are providing the possibilities. If not motorsports, then maybe something within their passion.
I find two things extremely engaging: scaling up new ideas and transformational change. Each has its own challenges, some of which are similar. Being able to engage in conversations, motivate people, find opportunities, and framework new ideas really excites me. Finding people to execute those concepts can be equally exciting.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
From a business perspective, VETMotrosports's major accomplishments have been the ability to gain the attention of global brands, such as Triumph Motorcycles North America, or the support largest sports car club in the United States, the Sports Car Club of America. But larger than that have been the participant testimonials. They validate the success of our non-clinical, non-traditional therapies in the military community. Personally, being able to lead, manage, and be successful outside of a 9 to 5 job has been extremely rewarding. Not fitting into a narrative that some have created, breaking out of the 'box' that people have placed you in... that has been very satisfying.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
When we started the non-profit in 2013, the space we occupied had little competition. Now we have a non-profit space full of similar missions and agendas. It's about staying relevant without professional and personal burnout. That's the challenge.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
For anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today, I would #1 recommend mentorships. Not family members or friends, but those with skillsets not in your 'toolbox' in the business space you want to occupy. That would be legal, HR, fiscal, etc. These opinions will help guide you. This then leads to #2 being accountable and honest. With your time, your ability to do the work, to delegate. Lastly, #3 is knowing your strengths and staying in that space. This ties into #1. You can't be everything for everyone, but you can find people who share your passion; they can be your shepherds to the flock.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Say yes to a conversation because even if they end in "No," they can open other doors. I appreciate your reading this interview; thanks for your time.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://www.vetmotorsports.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pete.cline.3
Twitter: https://twitter.com/vetmotorsports
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-cline-aba80b9/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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